Cade's Independent Study

Every year Cade has to do an independent study for his QUEST class. He is supposed to do indepth research on a topic of his choice, exploring the topic from all possible angles. He then makes a 20-30 minute presentation to his class. In past years he has studied Mount Everest and the brain, among other topics. He always has a hard time deciding what he wants to do, initially choosing something and then deciding to quit midstream and do something else! This drives me crazy, but I have learned to expect it! Once he finally commits to an idea, his focus amazes me.


This year, with Andrew's help, Cade decided to learn about Pistol Pete, an amazing basketball player from the 1970s. He read about Pete's life, charted his accomplishments, and compared him to basketball players of today. He watched a lot of video of Pete playing basketball and was impressed with his determination and skill. What impressed him even more, though, was the way Pete embraced Christ in the last years of his life. Pete realized that the success he enjoyed never gave him the peace or contentment he yearned for, and he became a vibrant evangelical Christian in 1982. He had a powerful impact on many people in his final years, and I think he is still having an impact today, specifically on an 11-year-old boy that I know.


Cade told Pete's entire story to his class, boldy sharing the truth with a roomful of 5th graders. I was so proud of him, and his teacher (who happens to be a courageous believer herself) was very supportive. Yea, God! It was a cool moment.


If you're interested in Pete's amazing skill, watch the video. I don't think he talks about his faith here, but you will see how a man with this kind of talent and ability would be a great voice for God when he says, "Even this isn't enough."